The following is a 'handout' prepared by Mike Seifert, FIFA Referee, and distributed at
an EDSRA Technical session in 2005

Managing Free Kicks

Free kick management is one of the most challenging and important aspects of refereeing. This is
particularly relevant in the indoor game, where the management of free kicks can be critical to establishing
and then maintaining effective match control. With the rules of indoor soccer allowing direct scoring from
all free kicks (remember, there are no indirect kicks with the current indoor rules), it is in your best interests
to be efficient and effective with your free kick management. With proper free kick management, you will be
'in charge' and 'in control' during these situations. Seize this opportunity to shine, because this will, in turn,
help your overall match control and earn respect from the players regardless of which way the original
foul went.

Remember that when a free kick is called, usually all eyes turn to the referee because play is now stopped
and the ball is 'dead'. Field players, spectators, subs on the bench and coaches all look to the referee to
see what the call was and how the referee is now going to handle the ensuing free kick. During these times, you are now 'on stage' and therefore it is important to look and feel confident and experienced.

Consider the following practical pointers if you want to enhance your techniques in free kick management:

A clear whistle that is appropriate for the offence

A good, clear directional arm signal

Move to the spot where the restart will take place (spot the ball precisely)

Be prepared for incidents at the restart area (lingering bad feelings, retaliation etc.)

If required, deal immediately with defenders who delay the restart

If required, deal immediately with defenders who fail to respect the required distance

If required, receive assistance from your AR to establish the correct location of the FK

Allow the attacking team to have a quick FK if it is 'on'

If no quick FK opportunity occurs fairly soon, establish a 'ceremonial' FK

Prevent offending players from coming into the 15 foot zone, if they are outside

Remove players who are presently within the 15 foot zone

Ensure the wall is back 15 feet

Be aware of attackers in the wall

Be aware of attackers in front of the goalie

Ensure the ball has not been moved by the attacking players

Ensure the attacking players wait for a restart whistle (on 'ceremonial')

Go to a suitable position, depending on the 'read' of the situation

Be prepared for a possible shot on goal (remember, all FK's are direct)

Once again, be aware of players (defenders or attackers) who delay the restart

Give a clear restart signal

Once again, be aware of defenders who fail to respect the restart distance

5 second count - should take 5 seconds!!

Be mentally prepared to deal with an infringement of some sort

Watch for 2nd touch by kicker

Tips:

• control the situation but don't restrict teams or players
• "presence lends to authority", and "closeness creates credibility"
• take your time - don't get caught up in the excitement/rush of the players
• stay clam, coll and collected
• be prepared to deal with questioning and dissent from both sides
... (a) attackers (location of kick, harsher punishment)
... (b) defenders (questioning call, location of kick)
• use AR if necessary, for proper location of FK & to watch in front of goalie and off the ball / off the wall

Editor's note: This will all take place within a matter of seconds, so you really have to be
'Thinking on Your Feet'